Portsmouth v Eastleigh, Saturday 28th February, Counties 1 Hampshire League

This was a contest between 2 teams that are at the opposite ends of the table. And that was exactly how it played out. Gareth Davies was first on the score board with a penalty 5 minutes into the match. Eastleigh then took the lead with a converted try 10 minutes later. From a quickly taken tap penalty by Gareth Davies he spun the ball to Ant Fooks who crossed for their first try, taking the score to 7-8. Shortly after that full back Matt Higgins caught an Eastleigh kick and moving forward, passed to Jay Chatham who had a leisurely stroll around the opposition to score Portsmouth’s second try converted by Davies, taking the score to 7 -15.

About 5 minutes before half time and with the 3’s in a fine handling move, centre Leo Wall cut a lovely angle which completely took the opposition by surprise as he raced through to score their third try converted by Davies, taking the score to 7-22 and that was the score at the end of the first half.

The second half got underway with Portsmouth in fine attacking mood and Henry Brown, who had come on in place of Brad Jewer who had a hamstring niggle, from a penalty against Eastleigh Portsmouth worked the ball to Henry Brown who stepped his way to the try line taking the score to 7-27 on 44 minutes. This was Portsmouth’s 4th try giving them yet another bonus point. Eastleigh then hit back with a try of their own taking the score to 12-27 on 57 minutes.

Portsmouth then lost Sam Floyd for 10 minutes for a high tackle. This was followed by a yellow card for Sam Foster so Portsmouth were now down to 13 players. Undeterred by this it was then the turn of Sam Olie to get on the score board as he finished off a good move by ghosting his way through the opposition when it didn’t look as though there was anything on. Again Davies was on target with the conversion. This took the score to 12-34. This was followed by another typical barnstorming run by Leo Wall, breaking several tackles in the process, to score his second try. Again Davies obliged with the conversion and the score was now 12- 41.

With the pack in a dominant mood they then drove Eastleigh back at a rate of knots and giving away a penalty in the process plus another 10 metres for back chatting the Referee. Portsmouth were in no mood to hang around and spinning the ball through the backs it was down to Jay Chatham to score the final try, again converted by Davies, taking the final score to 12-48. Despite the score line, Portsmouth probably left a couple of tries out there, but generally this was a very good performance, with again the bench playing their full part in the victory. Sam Floyd deserves a mention for securing at least 5 turn overs in the match.

There were a couple of late changes to the original selected team with prop Liam Avis suffering a fractured eye socket at training on Thursday and backrower Henri Davies turning his ankle at training on Tuesday.

This win sees Portsmouth still top with 66 points, Bognor are second after beating Winchester 2’s 29-23.They are on 58 points and Basingstoke are 3rd on 56 points after losing to Millbrook, 31-34. Next week’s opponents, Andover, are in 4th after beating Guernsey 2nds 32-15. They are on 53 points.

TEAM
WILL ROLFE(C) JOHN PEARSON, JOE BENNITTS
SAM FOSTER, ELLIOTT WORRALL
TOBY WILSON, SAM FLOYD, ANT FOOKS
DOMVUGLER,GARETH DAVIES
NBRAD JEWER, SAM OLIE, LEO WALL, JAY CHATHAM
MATT HIGGINS

BENCH
ALEX BUCK, BRYN RAINFORD, HENRY BROWN

Portsmouth v Guernsey 2nds, Saturday 14th February, Counties 1 Hampshire League

What a lovely change in the weather, sunny with a slight breeze blowing down the pitch and the pitch in reasonable condition considering the rain we have had recently. After a narrow 1 point victory away to Guernsey, Portsmouth knew that this was not going to be an easy game and so it proved.

Guernsey kicked off with the breeze behind them. For the first 10 minutes or so Portsmouth were kept in their half, partly due to the Guernsey kicking but also their pack which was probably the biggest and most aggressive they had come up against this season. On one of their first forays into the Guernsey half, Fooks had managed to break through the lineout and steal the ball, taking play up to the 22. However a knock on in the tackle gave Guernsey a scrum and they pushed Portsmouth back as they cleared their lines. However Portsmouth were soon back on the attack and a good run from Eban Skinner saw him make good ground before offloading to Matt Higgins who was up in support, he made several yards before drawing a defender then passing to Sam Olie who was also up in support and he ran clear to score close to the posts, Higgins was on target with the conversion and Portsmouth led 7-0 on 15 minutes.

10 minutes later Portsmouth were defending in their 22 when the ball was passed to centre Leo Wall after full back Jay Chatham had dived on a loose ball preventing an almost certain try. Side stepping and handing off would be tacklers, Wall broke out of the 22 and raced towards the try line and although he had support he was on no mood to let go of the ball as he just carried on to score near the posts. Higgins was on target again and the lead was now 14-0. Their third try came from Brad Jewer who had caught the ball and moved up-field at a rate of knots before passing the Fooks who was up in support. He, in turn, made ground before passing the Jay Chatham who raced away to score close to the posts, Higgins was again on target and they now led 21-0.

Guernsey then opened their scoring account with a try resulting from a lineout about 10 metres from the try line. They set up a powerful catch and drive to score near to the posts with a converted try taking the score to 21-7. This was followed by another 5 metre lineout, a catch and drive, and their second score reducing the lead to 21-12 as the half time whistle went.

Portsmouth got the second half underway and were soon on the attack. The ball went across the pitch through several pairs of hands and eventually it was Brad Jewer on the wing who took the final pass. From seeming to have no room he evaded several tackles and side stepping his way down the touchline he eventually crossed for Portsmouth’s 4th bonus point try. Higgins did the usual and the lead now was 28-12 on 43 minutes.

Guernsey seemed to realise that they couldn’t make much progress through their backs so resorted to a series of pick and goes or lineouts to find their way to score. After one such move in which they made good ground, their resultant score saw them close the gap to 28-19. Portsmouth then lost Liam Avis to a yellow card for 10 minutes. With Portsmouth down to 14, Guernsey took full advantage of this and scored their 4th bonus point try taking the score to 28-26. Portsmouth defended well to prevent any further scores and the final whistle went with relief all round from the Portsmouth camp as their winning run now extends to 10. All the Portsmouth bench was used and each contributed well. However, with the pack under pressure and often going backwards at the set piece, it was difficult getting the ball away cleanly.

The back’s clearly had the advantage in both attack and defence but with the pack under constant pressure it was no surprise that all the Guernsey scores came via the forwards who were not only the biggest pack we had come up against but also the most aggressive. As Bognor, who are second, lost to Sandown & Shanklin 47-42, Portsmouth are still top and have extended their lead to 8 points. (61 to 53) Gosport & Fareham beat Winchester 2nds 41-14. Winchester are 3rd on 49 points. Next week is another blank week, the next fixture is Eastleigh away on Saturday 28th February.

TEAM
WILL ROLFE, JOE BENNETTS, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER, EBAN SKINNER
TOBY WILSON, SAM FLOYD, ANT.FOOKS
DOM VUGLER, MATT HIGGINS
BRAD JEWER, SAM OLIE, LEO WALL, CALLUM GRAHAMSLAW
JAY CHATHAM

BENCH
JOHN PEARSON, HENRI DAVIES, HENRY BROWN

Portsmouth v Basingstoke, Saturday 30th January, Counties 1 Hampshire League

With the M3 closed to traffic for the weekend we had to travel the scenic route through Selbourne and Alton and a lovely route it was, as a passenger
thanks to Ed Neville, I was able to look around quite safely. We both decided that in future we would always go that way but come back via the M3 as it was probably easier in the dark.
Any way enough of this rubbish, lets get on the important stuff, namely the match report. This was a re-run of the game in December when Sam Floyd suffered a nasty cut to his leg and the match had to be abandoned. This is his 3rd game since his operation.

Portsmouth got the game underway and straight away they pressurised ‘Stoke, keeping them in their 22. From a Portsmouth lineout the ball went to Gareth Davies who put a delicate kick towards the touchline where winger Brad Jewer took the catch at pace and raced down the wing only to be caught just before he could score. Portsmouth were keeping the pressure on ‘Stoke and it was fully 15 minutes before stoke got into the Portsmouth 22. Portsmouth soon took play back into the ‘Stoke half and eventually ‘Stoke got penalised for not releasing the tackled player. Gareth Davies took the kick from just outside the ‘Stoke 22 and the ball dissected the posts giving Portsmouth the lead 0-3 on 27 minutes.

From the re-start, Portsmouth were forced to defend and eventually a knock on by ‘Stoke should have given the visitors a chance to clear their line, but in a moment of madness someone back chatted the referee and he reversed his decision. ‘Stoke weren’t going to loose this advantage and scored out wide, the conversion missed but they were now in front 5-3 on 30 minutes. Portsmouth went straight back on the attack and the ball went through several players before the final pass to Jay Chatham who neatly stepped his winger and scored out wide. Davies was again on target and Portsmouth regained the lead 5-10 on 34 minutes. That was the last score of the first half.

‘Stoke got the second half underway and Portsmouth were now playing into a steady cross wind. ‘Stoke had a chance to close the gap with a penalty in front of the posts but the ball went wide. Portsmouth were soon on the attack again and a good kick ahead by sub Matt Pilbeam took play right upfield. He followed up the ball but slightly over ran it due to the vagueries of a bouncing rugby ball, fortunately Dan Spencer had also followed up and he was able to cross for their second try. With Davies again on target with the conversion the lead now stretched to 5-17 on 46 minutes.

However 5 minutes later ‘Stoke scored their second try which was converted, closing the gap to 12-17. The second half was becoming a much closer game. 5 minutes later Portsmouth were awarded a penalty following a good attack. Davies had no hesitation in taking the kick and he duly obliged taking the score to 12-20. With full time approaching it was ‘Stoke who scored next with a converted try taking the score to a nail biting 19-20.

They had a chance shortly after to win the game with a penalty but the kick went wide and with Portsmouth defending in their 22 they were able to win the ball and clear it to touch with the final whistle going giving them a well deserved, if narrow, win 19-20.

This was always going to be a tight game and so it proved, both sides having good attacking and defending qualities. There were no thoughts of bonus points from Portsmouth, it was just a case of winning. Both packs gave their all with Portsmouth just shading it. The front row has been much improved since the arrival of Will Rolfe this season. Although Basingstoke scored 3 tries to Portsmouth’s two they deserved this win, if only for the first half display which kept ‘Stoke in their half for long periods. In the second half it was a more even affair. All the subs were used and each and every one of them contributed to this victory. It was also good to see Bryn Rainford back after a long absence even if he doesn’t enjoy second row!

Portsmouth remain on top with 56 points, Bognor are second on 51 points, Winchester 2’s third on 49 points and ‘Stoke fourth also on 49 points but with 1 drawn match. This was Portsmouth’s 9th consecutive win, something not seen for a very long time.

There are no games next week as it is a rest week, the next game is against Guernsey 2nds at Rugby Camp on Saturday 14th February.

Team
WILL ROLFE(C), JOHN PEARSON, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER, BRYN RAINFORD
DAN SPENCER, SAM FLOYD, ANT FOOKS
DOM VUGLAR, GARETH DAVIES
BRAD JEWER, JOSH HOWELL-WILLIAMS, SAM OLIE, JAY CHATHAM
FRAZER GREEN

BENCH
JOE BENNETS, ED MILFORD, MATT PILBEAM

Portsmouth v Bournemouth 2’s, Saturday 24th January. Counties 1 Hampshire League

On a very wet and windy day Portsmouth seemed to have decided to give their travelling supporters cause for alarm as it appeared to be the day for them to loose their unbeaten run of 8 games as they fell to a 17-0 deficit in the first 20 minutes of the match. A penalty on 2 minutes followed by 2 converted tries. 7 minutes later they fell further behind with an unconverted try taking the score to 22-0.

It took Portsmouth till 30 minutes to get on the score board with a good catch and drive resulting in skipper Will Rolfe crashing over for their first try converted by Gareth Davies. This was followed up just before half time with Ant Fooks scoring from a tap penalty taking the score to 22-12 as the half time whistle went. It was just as though the team had realised what was at stake and suddenly decided they had better get to grip with the match.

From the start of the second half, Portsmouth went on the attack and from a ball collected by full back Fraser Green who made serious inroads into the Bournemouth half before he passed to winger Jay Chatham. He was able to step around a defender before running round to score close to the posts.
Davies was on target with the conversion and the score was now 22-19. Bournemouth were able to widen the gap with a penalty, taking the score to 25-19.

Portsmouth were now in a different mood from the start of the match and more pressure resulted in second row Sam Foster scoring out wide after some good handling. This was the 4th try and therefore that all important bonus point. With Davies again on target they went into the slenderest of leads 25-26 on 52 minutes. Portsmouth were now in full flow and from a series of pick and goes, hooker John Pearson finished off a good move with
their 5th try, again converted by Davies taking the score to 25-33 on 58 minutes.

Bournemouth, through their rapid backs, tried to get back on terms but the Portsmouth defence held firm. And so it stayed until, with Portsmouth defending their try line, they managed to win the ball back and scrum half Vuglar hoofed the ball into touch and the final whistle went and thus Portsmouth’s run of wins continues intact at 8. All the subs were used and the whole 23 squad deserved this hard earned victory.

There was much relief for the Portsmouth supporters who were thinking that it would end today after the first 20 minute display. Even the Bournemouth players and supporters were saying it was all over for Portsmouth during the first half. As skipper Will Rolfe said, “there is a lot of rugby to be played yet” and so it proved.

Bognor were top before today’s games but they got beaten by Basingstoke 20-18. Next week sees Portsmouth travel to Basingstoke for a replay of the earlier game in which Sam Floyd suffered a nasty cut to his leg and the abandonment of that game. This will be another hard battle and they will need to be on top of their game from the off.

All this means that Portsmouth now sit on top of this league on 52 points with Bognor 2nd on 51 points. Basingstoke are in 4th place on 48 points.

TEAM
WILL ROLFE(C), JOHN PEARSON, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER, LEWIS MURRAY
TOBY WILSON, SAM FLOYD, ANT.FOOKS
DOM VUGLAR, GARETH DAVIES
CALLUM GRAHAMSLAW, SAM OLIE, BRAD JEWER, JAY CHATHAM
FRASER GREEN

BENCH
JOE BENNETTS, HENRI DAVIES, IOAN DAVIS

Portsmouth v Millbrook, Saturday 17th January. Counties 1 Hampshire League

I suppose it was a bit much to hope for a similar performance from last week as today’s opposition was going to be a tougher game and so it proved.

Portsmouth started out with great intent with Ant Fooks intercepting a lineout throw in the Millbrook 22 and raced through to score close to the touch line with barely 2 minutes on the clock. Gareth Davies was unable to add the extras so the score remained 5-0. Five minutes later, Millbrook closed the gap with a penalty taking the score to 5-3.

From the restart the ball was kicked deep into Portsmouth 22 and Callum Grahamslaw caught it and set off up field beating two defenders in the process with a neat bit of footwork. As he made ground he was able to kick the ball up field and another tap on the ball saw it cross the try line and Josh Howell-Williams was on hand to touch it down taking the score to 10-3 on 10 minutes. Portsmouth were then penalised for not rolling away after a tackle giving Millbrook another chance to close the gap which they duly did taking the score to 10-6 on 12 minutes.

From the restart Portsmouth took the game into the Millbrook 22. From a 5 metre lineout Liam Avis was able to secure the ball and he charged through to score their 3rd try – which Gareth Davies was able to convert from close to the touch line, taking the score to 17-6 on 22 minutes and that was the end of any scores in the first half. Millbrook were trying to slow the game down to suit them and Portsmouth seemed to be happy to oblige until the half time whistle with the score still 17-6 in their favour.

Millbrook got the second half underway and soon showed their intent with a 5 metre scrum resulting in a blind side break from the back of the scrum to open the scoring with a converted try which took the score to 17-13 on 47 minutes. That stirred Portsmouth into action and a 3’s move was finished off by Callum Grahamslaw who scored their 4th bonus point try on 54 minutes. This time Davies was on target and the score was now 24-13. There then followed a great bit of defence by Portsmouth when Millbrook appeared to have scored but, somehow, before the ball was grounded, Grahamslaw was able to tackle the ball carrier and turn him so he was on his back thus preventing a score.

Millbrook, however, were soon able to add to their score with a converted try taking the score to 24-20 on 62 minutes. 3 minutes later, Portsmouth set up a good bit of inter-passing between Greenslaw and Matipano and they scored a converted try taking the tally to 31-20. 2 minutes later, Millbrook hit back with their 3rd try taking the score to 31-25.

Another attack by Portsmouth saw Fooks break through but he was tackled just short of the line but luckily Archie Clemence had followed up and Fooks was able to throw up a pass to him for their 6th try taking the score to 36-25 with only a few minutes remaining. MIllbrook were penalised for not releasing the tackled player and eventually Dam Vuglar was able to clear the ball into touch and the final whistle went giving Portsmouth their 7th win on the bounce scoring 6 tries in the process for the second consecutive game.

This was without doubt a far harder game than last week and the pressure that brought was evident in the number of dropped passes and balls lost in tackles. There were also a few missed tackles which didn’t help. One good bit of news was that Sam Floyd played his first game today since the Basingstoke fixture in which he got an horrendous injury to his leg which left his bone exposed. It also led to the postponement of the game as they had to wait for an ambulance to arrive. That game has now been rescheduled for 31st January. Sam came through this match unscathed much to the relief of all concerned and is testament to the excellent work that was done in the hospital where he was treated.

This result sees Portsmouth move up to the giddy heights of second in the League on 47 points. Bognor remain top despite loosing to Andover 17-29.
Next week sees the 1’s travelling to Dorset to play Bournemouth 2’s, they beat Winchester 2’s 50-21. Bournemouth are 7th on 37 points.

TEAM
WILL ROLFE(C), BRAD ATKINS, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER, ELLIOTT WORRALL
TOBY WILSON, SAM FLOYD, ANT FOOKS
DOM VUGLAR, GARETH DAVIES
CALLUM GRAHAMSLAW, JOSH HOWELL-WILLIAMS, SAM OLIE, ARCHIE CLEMENCE
TAWANDA MATIPANO

BENCH
JOHN PEARSON, LEWIS MURRAY, HENRI DAVIES

Portsmouth v Winchester, Saturday 10th January 2026, Counties 1 Hampshire League

With Winchester topping the League table before this game and Portsmouth lying in 4th place but with a game in hand, this was a much anticipated fixture by the Portsmouth squad. They also welcomed back Tawanda Matipano who last played in September and November 2023 but had to step down owing to pressure of Uni work. He is now back and this is his first game since then.

Some very good defensive work kept Winchester out as they tried to break the deadlock but Portsmouth were in no mood to concede tries today. Portsmouth gave away a penalty around their 22 and almost in front of the posts but the kick went wide so the score stayed nil-nil.

Portsmouth then set up a good drive to the line and actually crossed but Winchester managed to get arms under the ball thus preventing a try. However the Portsmouth pressure was beginning to have an effect and from a backs move the ball was spun across the pitch and Jay Chatham was on hand to take the final pass and with good speed he raced through to score the opening try. Gareth Davies was on target with the conversion giving Portsmouth a 0-7 lead on 20 minutes. Portsmouth were then penalised for a high tackle and this time they converted the penalty closing the gap to 3-7 with nearly 30 minutes gone.

Shortly after that Portsmouth had a lineout close to the try line and they set up a good rolling maul with captain Will Rolfe driving over for their second try converted by Davies and taking the score to 3-14 on just over the half hour. This lead was extended again when from a line out Portsmouth set up a catch and drive and this time it was second row Toby Wilson who scored. This took the score to 3-19 as the whistle went signalling the end of the first half in which they had scored 3 unanswered tries.

The second half saw Portsmouth empty their bench with Matt Hoban coming on for Josh Howell-Williams in the centre, John Pearson coming on for Henri Davies at 7 and Toby Wilson making way for Lewis Murray at 6. The pleasing thing for the Coaches was that these changes made no difference to the visitors performance apart from the fact that they were fresh and raring to go.

The second half started in much the same vein with Portsmouth being the dominant side and any occasional attacks by Winchester were dealt with very quickly, giving them no room to make ground. Portsmouth were first on the score board again with a penalty kicked by Davies taking the score to 3-22 on 53 minutes. On 60 minutes Portsmouth set up another attack through their backs which saw Jay Chatham take the final pass to score his second and Portsmouth’s 4th bonus point try taking the score to 3-27.

Yet another 3’s attack saw the ball spun across the backs with again Jay Chatham taking the final pass. A delicate kick ahead as he closed in on the try line, saw him race through to dive for the falling ball as it dropped into the in-goal area. He seemed to fly through the air, catching the ball to score the most dramatic try of this season! This was his 3rd try and Portsmouth’s 5th, taking the score to 3-32 with about 10 minutes remaining. John Pearson had the final word for Portsmouth when he scored their 6th try. Davies was on target with the conversion and the final whistle went as the ball cleared to cross bar taking the score to 3-39.

It was a fitting end to what had been a very good performance by the whole Portsmouth squad, especially when you consider this was their first game since 20th December when they travelled to Sandown & Shanklin to win by a single point. Today’s win is their 6th on the bounce. It was also good to see several Portsmouth supporters on the touch line who thoroughly enjoyed the game and the result.

Next week sees Portsmouth at home to Millbrook who today beat Chichester 32-30. Millbrook are in 8th.place. Today’s result sees Bognor now topping the table on 50 points, Winchester are in second on 44 points and Portsmouth are third on 42 points. Basingstoke are in fourth but also on 42 points, They have lost 1 more game than Portsmouth with 1 drawn.

TEAM
WILL ROLFE(C), BRAD ATKINS, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER, ELLOITT WORRALL
TOBY WILSON, HENRI DAVIES, ANT FOOKS
DOM VUGLAR, GARETH DAVIES
JAY CHATHAM, JOSH HOWELL-WILLIAMS, SAM OLIE, FRASER GREEN
TAWANDA MATIPANO

BENCH
JOHN PEARSON, LEWIS MURRAY, MATT HOBAN

Portsmouth v Sandown & Shanklin, Saturday 20th December, Counties 1 Hampshire League

With this the last weekend before Christmas there were a lot of regulars missing so players were drafted in from across the club. The most notable being second row Ian French who once again rolled back the years, he is in his forties now and playing occasionally for the Vets, 3rds, and very occasionally the 2nds. This is his first outing in the 1’s this season and by all accounts he did brilliantly.

Sandown & Shanklin opened the scoring with an unconverted try giving them a 5-0 lead. Shortly after that score Portsmouth lost their No. 10 to a yellow card. Brad Atkins was the first scorer for Portsmouth taking the scores to 5-5. The home side then scored their second try, again unconverted, giving them a 10-5 lead. By now Gareth Davies was back on and a penalty kick saw Portsmouth narrow the gap to 10-8 and that score remained till half time.

Portsmouth took the lead in the second half with a converted try by Ant Fooks, making the score 10-15. the conversion was by Gareth Davies. They went further ahead through a penalty by Gareth Davies, giving them a 10-18 lead. Sandown & Shanklin then hit back with a converted try, closing the gap to 17-18.

Fooks then scored his second try, converted by Davies, taking the lead to 17-25. The home side then scored a converted try taking the score to 24-25. and that was the score when the final whistle went giving Portsmouth the narrowest of wins. All the drafted players performed well but French was the standout player.

This result sees Portsmouth move up to 4th in the league but with a game in hand. Bognor beat Chichester 29-27 to go top and Winchester 2’s beat Basingstoke 19-17 so they go 2nd with Basingstoke 3rd. Our next fixture is Saturday 10th January 2026 when we travel to Winchester 2’s, that promises to be a close game. Lets hope that everyone is back fit and raring to go!
Finally I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a great New Year. See you in 2026.

Portsmouth v Bognor, Saturday 13th December, Counties 1 Hampshire League

An ideal day for a good game of rugby, no wind, bright blue sky and plenty of sunshine, and so it proved. This was always going to be a battle for both sides. Bognor were in 2nd place and Portsmouth had been 4th before last weeks game got abandoned in the first half when they were 4th. That meant that before this game they had slipped to 6th.but with a game in hand. This was also the last home for the 1’s before the Christmas break.

From the start Portsmouth took the game to Bognor and although Bognor responded well it was Portsmouth who opened the scoring first when from a 5 metre scrum Portsmouth got good forward momentum which saw skipper Will Rolfe cross for a try. Matt Higgins was on target with the conversion and the score was 7-0 after about 6 minutes. However that lead didn’t last long when from a lineout close to the Portsmouth try line, Bognor spun the ball out to the backs and their centre ran through to score close to the posts, the try was converted and the score was now 7 a’piece after about 12 minutes.

That lead was short lived when from a penalty against the visitors Matt Higgins put the ball through the uprights to re-take the lead 10-7 after 14 minutes. A good run by the Bognor full back, who showed good pace until he was tackled by Jay Chatham. The ball was quickly re-cycled and they crossed for their second try which was converted taking the score to 10-14 on 22 minutes. Portsmouth then lost prop Liam Avis to a yellow card for a high tackle. Bognor took advantage of the missing Portsmouth player and crossed for their 3rd try taking the score to 10-19 on 24 minutes.

That lead was increased by their 4th try scored with about 3 minutes of the half remaining, taking the score to 10-26. With half time fast approaching Portsmouth set up a good move with the ball going through several pairs of hands until Jay Chatham took the final pass and showed great speed as he raced down the wing to score out wide. Matt Higgins was on target again and the gap was now 17-26 as the half time whistle went.

The second half got underway with Portsmouth seemingly re-energised by the last score. From a series of pick and goes, Portsmouth got in range of the try line and Liam Avis scored their 3rd try – converted by Matt Higgins. This closed the gap to 24-26 on 52 minutes, From a Bognor scrum the Portsmouth pack drove Bognor back at a rate of knots forcing them into giving away a penalty. Matt Higgins was again on target and this saw them re-take a slender lead of 27-26 on 60 minutes.

From a Bognor scrum close to the try line, the Bognor No.8 broke blind and scored out wide taking the score to 27-31 on 65 minutes. From a scrum just inside the Bognor 22 the Portsmouth pack once again drove for the line and eventually crossed for their 4th bonus point try. Higgin’s kick looked to be going over but at the last minute it drifted wide of the outside post. But importantly this gave the lead back to the home side 32-31 on 75 minutes.

The pressure was now mounting on both teams but it was Bognor who cracked first when a player pushed Will Rolfe in the back after the whistle had gone. He was shown a yellow card which was then changed to red following dissent to the ref. In the closing minutes Bognor put a long kick down field which Jay Chatham gathered and he made progress upfield before being tackled around the 22 metre line, Portsmouth were then penalised for not releasing after the tackle. With the kick to the side of the posts but just around the 22 it looked as though the game would be lost but the kick went wide and the final whistle went as the ball crossed the dead ball line, giving a well earned victory to Portsmouth 32-31 amid much jubilation from players and spectators alike.

A lot of the credit for the win must go to the forwards who put a lot of pressure on the Bognor pack. It was a much better performance in the second half by the whole squad.

This result sees Portsmouth move up to 5th on 33 points but with a game in hand. Bognor remain 2nd on 40 points. Basingstoke are 4th. having beaten Sandown & Shanklin 46-15. Next week Portsmouth travel to Sandown & Shanklin for the last game before the break. We all know that Island teams don’t travel well so are always stronger at home. They are currently in 10th place.

On a bright note it was very pleasing to see Sam Floyd at the game supporting his team mates. He is now on crutches following his horrendous injury last week at Basingstoke. And the outcome seems much better than originally feared which is great news. He was certainly in good spirits during the match and after.

TEAM
WILL ROLFE(C), BRAD ATKINS, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER, CHARLIE BODMAN
ALEX BUCK, ANT FOOKS, TOM WHITEHOUSE
DOM VUGLAR, MATT HIGGINS
JAY CHATHAM, ALI MACDONALD, SAM OLIE, CALLUM GRAHAMSLAW
BRAD JEWER

BENCH
JOHN PEARSON, JOSH HOWELL-WILLIAMS, JAMES COLWELL

Portsmouth v Basingstoke, Saturday 6th December, Counties 1 Hampshire League

This game had all the prospects of being a very tight match. With Basingstoke in 3rd place on 31 points and Portsmouth in 4th place on 28 points. The biggest difference between the 2 sides was ‘Stoke’s points difference of 139 against Portsmouth’s 14.

The rain was not too bad but there was a strong wind blowing straight across the pitch which didn’t really give either team an advantage.
The game kicked off at 3.00pm under floodlights. Basingstoke got the match underway and Toby Wilson caught the ball and took play forward before linking with his 3’s. A good kick by Gareth Davies took play deep into the opposition half. ‘Stoke set up an attack but good defence stopped them and a great jackal by Sam Floyd won Portsmouth a penalty just inside the Basingstoke half. Gareth Davies took the ball and elected to kick at goal which dissected the posts giving Portsmouth a 0-3 lead after a couple of minutes.

From the restart ‘Stoke put the ball directly into touch giving Portsmouth a scrum on half way. Portsmouth were then penalised for an infringement in the tackle. From a quickly taken tap penalty they spun the ball across their 3’s with the 2 centre’s showing good handling and speed and eventually they scored a converted try taking the score to 7-3 on 6 minutes.

‘Stoke then got penalised from the restart for holding on after the tackle. A good touch kick by Gareth Davies took play deep in to the ‘Stoke 22 and Portsmouth had a lineout about 7 metres from the try line. Suddenly Will Rolfe got the ball and drove over to score a try, Gareth Davies kick looked as though it was going to dissect the posts but at the last minute with wind took it wide. But this put Portsmouth back in the lead 7-8 with about 15 minutes played.

With play swinging between the 22’s neither side could get real domination. At scrum time it seemed that Portsmouth would put pressure on Basingstoke and vice-versa on Portsmouth’s put in. The ‘Stoke centre’s were causing problems for Portsmouth and they opened up the Portsmouth defence but a final pass was forward much to the relief to the visitors. Portsmouth then lost 2nd row Toby Wilson when he and Sam Olie both tackled the same player resulting in a clash of heads which saw Wilson leave the field with a nose bleed. He was replaced by Henri Davies.

With the game still well-balanced Sam Floyd made a good clearout of a ‘Stoke player then he himself got cleared out or so it seemed. It was all a bit unclear as the next thing we were aware of was Sam Floyd looking at his leg and calling for the Physio. Leane rushed on but also Liam Avis, who is a Charge Nurse in A&E at QA. He went straight into action with Leane and the game was stopped as an ambulance was called for. This all happened on 37 minutes.

A Paramedic arrived very quickly and he assessed the situation and chased up the ambulance which arrived at about 3.45pm. Meanwhile the Ref had suggested the 2 teams retire to the changing rooms as it was going to be a while before Sam Floyd could be moved. By then the spectators were also returning to the comfort of the bar. The next we heard was that the Ref had spoken to both teams and neither showed much enthusiasm for continuing so the game was mutually abandoned, the fixture will be played later in the season, possibly on a blank weekend in January.

The incident was completely accidental and was all as bit of a mystery as it happened almost in front of us but no-one seemed aware of the severity. Such a disappointing way for the game to end what was a very entertaining and exciting match. In the club house after the Referee said how this game was one of the best he had covered for a long time, in fact he wasn’t aware of the time, so engrossed was he. There were big tackles going in from both sides which prompted ooh’s and aah’s from both sets of supporters.

We heard that the Medics didn’t think the leg was broken but would know more when he got to hospital. The later news was that Sam had lacerations from his knee to his ankle which would require surgery tomorrow. Since he joined us from Locks Heath Puma’s he has earned his place in the 1st XV and has been quite fearless in his play. We all wish him a quick recovery and speedy return to action.

TEAM

WILL ROLFE(C), BRAD ATKINS, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER, TOBY WILSON
ALEX BUCK, SAM FLOYD, ANT FOOKS
DOM VUGLAR, GARETH DAVIES
JAY CHATHAM, ALI MACDONALD, SAM OLIE, MATT PILBEAM
IOAN DAVIS

BENCH
JOHN PEARSON, HENRI DAVIES, JAMES COLWELL

Portsmouth V Gosport & Fareham. Saturday 29th November, Counties 1 Hampshire League

The day was preceded by a Former Players Lunch which boosted the spectators on what was a rather wet and cold day to start with but fortunately the weather cleared by the time of kick off.

Gosport got proceedings underway and Portsmouth were straight into attack mode. After Gosport had given a couple of penalties away Portsmouth got clean ball from a line out and Tom Whitehouse, playing at 6, broke with the ball before linking with the backs. The ball eventually found its way to Matt Higgins, who had joined from fullback and with a good turn of speed he crossed the line to score out wide. Gareth Davies conversion hit the upright but bounced back into play so the score was 5-0 after 5 minutes. Shortly after this score Gosport were awarded a penalty which they duly converted taking the score to 5-3 on 10 minutes.

Gosport then lost their open side to a red card for stamping on a Portsmouth players’ hand. This was followed shortly after by a yellow card to a Gosport player for a no arms tackle on the Portsmouth scrum half. Portsmouth were in a pretty dominant mood and this saw 2 tries scored within 5 minutes of each other. The first was by winger Callum Grahamslaw who finished off a good 3’s move when he ran round his opposite number and scored close to the posts. Gareth Davies was on target with the conversion and the lead was now 12-3. The next try was from a penalty awarded to Portsmouth and taken quickly by Gareth Davies who shot through to score close to the posts, he converted his try and the score was now 19-3 with about 30 minutes gone.

As half time approached, Portsmouth were awarded a scrum and the ball was quickly spun to the 3’s who set up a good move which finished with Callum Grahamslaw racing through from just inside the half way line to score close to the posts, again Gareth Davies was on target and the score was now 26-3 as half time approached. This was Callum’s second score and Portsmouth’s 4th try giving them a vital bonus point. The half time whistle went shortly after.

Portsmouth got the second half underway and were soon on the attack again but it took 8 minutes to get the score board moving, this time for a penalty against the visitors. Gareth Davies was again on target and the lead was now 29-3. It looked to all intents and purpose that Callum Grahamslaw had scored his 3rd try when he took the ball around the halfway line and raced down the touch line, breaking 2 or 3 tackles on his way to score. But the Gosport touch judge had put his flag up for a foot in touch, the Portsmouth spectators on that side were adamant that he was 6″ inside the touch line but the ref had no option but to take the touch judges decision and the score was ruled out. So the score still stood at 29-3.

Gosport had been pressing the try line for periods of the second half but the Portsmouth defence held firm but eventually they did manage to find a gap and scored close to the posts. The try was converted and the score was now 29-10. Portsmouth, after defending for periods in the second half, finally broke free and Leo Wall took the final pass from around the Gosport 22 and breaking couple of tackles, he scored between the posts and the touchline. Davies was on target and the score was now 36-10.

Gosport did manage to get the final score from a 3’s move in which they broke through the Portsmouth defence to score their 3rd, try, taking the final score to 36-15. The final whistle went as the ball missed the posts.

The second half was rather disappointing after the dominance shown in the first half and they did seem to loose focus on occasions. They will need to sharpen up next week with a trip to Basingstoke who are currently in 3rd place on 31 points. Portsmouth have now moved up to 4th place on 28 points after today’s win. So next week promises to be a very hard game but one that they are capable of winning if they can produce the performance they are capable of.

TEAM
ALEX BUCK, BRAD ATKINS, LIAM AVIS
SAM FOSTER(C), TOBY WILSON
TOM WHITEHOUSE, SAM FLOYD, ANT FOOKS
DOM VUGLAR, GARETH DAVIES
JAY CHATHAM, SAM OLIE, LEO WALL, CALLIUM GRAHAMSLAW
MATT HIGGINS

BENCH
LEE CHANDLER, HENRI DAVIES, DOM BOURNE